Soft Lemon Muffins: A Refreshing Treat for Every Occasion
These Soft Lemon Muffins are a delicious and light dessert, perfect for those who crave the refreshing, zesty taste of lemon. The balance between the sweetness of the sugar and the tanginess of the lemon creates a flavor that is both satisfying and uplifting. Whether you’re preparing a treat for brunch, a gathering with friends, or simply a snack, these muffins will surely delight everyone.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (Farina 00) | 130g |
| Cornstarch (Maizena) | 50g |
| Sugar | 150g |
| Eggs | 100g |
| Whole milk | 65g |
| Corn oil (or any neutral oil) | 35g |
| Lemon zest | 1 lemon |
| Lemon juice | 80g |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Powdered sugar (for glazing) | 70g |
| Fresh lemons | 1 for garnish |
| Fresh mint leaves (optional) | 9 leaves |
Instructions
Preparing the Muffins:
-
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the sugar and the zest of one lemon. Stir them together using a whisk to release the natural oils from the lemon, infusing the sugar with a lovely citrus aroma. -
Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
Add the cornstarch, baking powder, all-purpose flour, milk, oil, and lemon juice into the bowl with the sugar and lemon zest. Mix these ingredients together until just combined. The batter should be smooth but still thick enough to hold its shape. Add in the eggs and whisk everything until fully incorporated. Make sure not to overmix to ensure the muffins stay light and fluffy. -
Filling the Muffin Cups
Preheat your oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the muffin batter into the liners, filling each one about three-quarters full, roughly 3 tablespoons per cup. This will ensure your muffins have enough room to rise and bake evenly. -
Baking
Bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden and firm to the touch.
Preparing the Lemon Glaze:
-
Making the Glaze
While the muffins are baking, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice. Start by adding the juice a little at a time, stirring with a whisk until the glaze reaches a smooth and fluid consistency. -
Glazing the Muffins
Once the muffins are baked and have cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze over each muffin. Use a spoon to ensure that each muffin gets a generous coating of glaze, adding a bright, sweet finish. -
Garnishing
For an extra touch, decorate each muffin with a thin slice of lemon and a small mint leaf. The mint will provide a burst of color and a subtle contrast in flavor, balancing the rich sweetness of the glaze with a refreshing note. -
Serving
Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. These Soft Lemon Muffins are perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a sweet snack to brighten any day. The moist texture and refreshing lemon flavor will leave everyone asking for more.
Nutritional Information (Per muffin, approximately)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 17g |
| Sodium | 30mg |
| Vitamin C | 10% of the daily value |
| Calcium | 4% of the daily value |
Pro Tips:
- If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
- For a dairy-free version, swap the milk for a plant-based alternative, like almond milk, and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute.
- If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can substitute with additional all-purpose flour.
These Soft Lemon Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the freshness of lemons with the comfort of a homemade muffin. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply enjoying a moment of indulgence, these muffins are sure to bring a smile to your face with every bite.
